Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes Recipe

Introduction

Cheesy scalloped potatoes are a comforting and classic dish perfect for family dinners or special occasions. Layers of tender potatoes and onions are smothered in a creamy cheddar sauce, then baked until bubbling and golden. This recipe is simple but yields rich, satisfying results that everyone will love.

Ingredients

• 4 russet potatoes, peeled and sliced into ¼-inch slices (about 2 pounds)
• 1 yellow onion, sliced into rings
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• ½ teaspoon kosher salt
• 2 cups whole milk, room temperature
• 1 ½ cups mild cheddar cheese, shredded
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat the oven to 400°F. Lightly spray an 8×8-inch casserole dish with nonstick cooking spray.
2. Step 2: Arrange the potato slices and onion rings in the prepared baking dish, alternating layers of potato and onion.
3. Step 3: In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and salt, stirring constantly for about one minute to form a roux.
4. Step 4: Gradually stir in the milk and continue cooking until the sauce thickens slightly.
5. Step 5: Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and smooth, about 30–60 seconds.
6. Step 6: Pour the cheese sauce evenly over the arranged potatoes and onions. Cover the dish with aluminum foil.
7. Step 7: Bake for 85–90 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.
8. Step 8: For a crispy top, switch the oven to broil and broil the potatoes for a few minutes until golden brown and bubbly.
9. Step 9: Season with additional salt and pepper to taste before serving.

Tips & Variations

• Use a mix of cheeses like Gruyère or Parmesan for extra depth of flavor.
• For a lighter version, substitute half-and-half or whole milk for the whole milk.
• Add fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary to the cheese sauce for an aromatic twist.
• Let the scalloped potatoes rest for 10 minutes before serving to help the sauce thicken slightly.

Storage

Store leftover scalloped potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through to maintain the creamy texture, or microwave in short intervals, stirring occasionally. Avoid reheating under the broiler, which can dry out leftovers.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I prepare scalloped potatoes ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the dish up to a day in advance and keep it covered in the refrigerator. Bake it just before serving, allowing extra baking time if chilled.

What’s the difference between scalloped potatoes and au gratin potatoes?

Scalloped potatoes typically use a milk or cream-based sauce without cheese, while au gratin potatoes include cheese both inside and on top for a golden, cheesy crust. This recipe combines elements of both for rich flavor.

Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes Recipe

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★★★★★

4.6 from 63 reviews

• Author: Simon
• Total Time: 1 hour 50 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings 1x

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Description

A comforting and creamy casserole featuring layers of tender sliced russet potatoes and onions, smothered in a rich, homemade cheddar cheese sauce, baked to perfection and optionally broiled for a crispy golden top.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Vegetables

• 4 russet potatoes, peeled and sliced into ¼-inch slices (about 2 pounds)
• 1 yellow onion, sliced into rings

Cheese Sauce

• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• ½ teaspoon kosher salt
• 2 cups whole milk, room temperature
• 1 ½ cups mild cheddar cheese, shredded

Seasoning

• Salt and pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. Preheat Oven and Prepare Dish: Preheat your oven to 400°F (204°C). Lightly spray an 8×8-inch casserole dish with nonstick cooking spray to prevent sticking.
2. Layer Potatoes and Onions: Arrange the sliced potatoes and onion rings alternately in the casserole dish, creating staggered layers to ensure even cooking and flavor distribution.
3. Make the Roux: In a medium saucepan, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in the all-purpose flour and kosher salt, stirring constantly for about one minute to cook out the raw flour taste.
4. Prepare Cheese Sauce: Gradually whisk in the room temperature whole milk and continue cooking, stirring often, until the sauce thickens to a creamy consistency. Remove from heat and quickly stir in the shredded mild cheddar cheese until completely melted and smooth, which should take about 30 to 60 seconds.
5. Combine and Cover: Pour the cheese sauce evenly over the layered potatoes and onions. Cover the casserole dish tightly with aluminum foil to trap steam and help the potatoes cook thoroughly.
6. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 85 to 90 minutes or until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.
7. Optional Broiling: For a crispy, golden-brown topping, switch the oven to broil after baking and broil the dish until the top is lightly browned and crisp, watching closely to prevent burning.
8. Season and Serve: Remove from oven, season with additional salt and pepper to taste, and serve warm for a comforting side dish or main course.

Notes

• Use whole milk at room temperature to prevent the cheese sauce from curdling.
• Covering the dish with foil during baking keeps the potatoes moist and tender.
• Broil only for a few minutes to achieve a golden crust without drying out the casserole.
• To save time, slice potatoes evenly for uniform cooking.
• For a tangier flavor, swap mild cheddar for sharp cheddar.
• This dish pairs well with roasted meats or a fresh green salad.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 90 minutes
• Category: Side Dish
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Keywords: scalloped potatoes, cheesy potatoes, baked potatoes, potato casserole, cheddar cheese, comfort food, side dish